When sizing a shin pad, you must determine first if you will wear the shin pad over top of the skate tongue, or if the skate tongue will sit in front of shin pad and “flop” forward. This will determined the length of the shin pad you will want.
Your knee should fit directly into the center of the kneecap, which is usually lined and padded to help direct it and provide comfort. Once the pad is strapped to your leg, it should be secure and snug and should NOT be able to twist rotate or slide freely. There are many strapping systems offered and you must decide what you like and dislike. On some models you will find anchor straps or thicker straps which can offer a better more secure fit. Anchor straps are made up of a stretchy knit material and usually fasten above or below the calf muscle. These straps are designed to anchor the pad in place and not allow it slide up or down. Thicker straps across the calf wrap/guard are also often used, these straps help provide full protection to your leg ensuring that the calf guard reaches across your leg.
Keep in mind that as you go up in price you will usually see more adjustments, options and higher density foams and technologies used. You must determine within your budget, which shin pad offers the most features that you want, as well as provides the most comfort.
Sizing a Shin Pad over top of your Skate Tongue:
To size a shin pad correctly when fitting over top of your skate tongue, measure the length (in inches) of your leg from the middle of your knee cap, when it is bent at a 90 degree angle, to the top of the boot of the skate. Once you have this measurement, round the number up to the next whole number (i.e. 13.2” becomes 14”). Because the shin pad is sitting over top of the skate tongue, it enables your to wear a slightly bigger pad without compromising mobility. This is usually seen as an upside because you get extra protection in areas like the tongue of your skate.
If you are sizing a player and want to include growth room, we do recommend this method as well, because it allows for a bigger pad to be worn, again without compromising motion or mobility.
Sizing a Shin Pad underneath your Skate Tongue:
To size a shin pad correctly when fitting over top of your skate tongue, measure the length (in inches) of your leg from the middle of your knee cap, when it is bent at a 90 degree angle, to the top of the boot of the skate. Once you have this measurement, round the number down to the next whole number (i.e. 13.7” becomes 13”). Because the shin pad is shipping underneath the skate tongue, the pad will not be able to sit right against the edge of the skate and thus a slightly shorter shin pad is used. If a shin pad that is too big is tried on, you will notice that the shin pad is shifted up and the kneecap falls out of the designated spot. If this happens your shin and knee will not be properly protected and you are more susceptible to having your shin pad rotate or more as well.
Compare your height, weight and age to the charts provided to find your best fit. As well, use the measurement that was taken above to compare to the provided charts. Another good estimation is to look at your old/existing shin pads to see what size they are. If you are growing and have outgrown them, then next size up is probably for you. If you liked the way your shin pads felt, it may be smart to continue with the same size.
